Watch CBS News

Ryan O'Neal reveals he has Stage 2 prostate cancer

Actor Ryan O'Neal arrives at the 25th Anniversary Genesis Awards on March 19, 2011, in Los Angeles. Getty

(CBS/AP) Ryan O'Neal says the prognosis is positive for his recovery from recently diagnosed Stage 2 prostate cancer.

The 70-year-old actor said in a statement that he was "shocked and stunned by the news" but feels fortunate the disease was caught early. He says he's expected to make a full recovery.

Read more: Ryan O'Neal blames himself, family for Farrah Fawcett's cancer
Pictures: Farrah Fawcett, 1947-2009

O'Neal says he's grateful for the support of his friends and family and advocates regular exams since early detection is the best defense.

Higher stage numbers mean more extensive disease, with Stage 4 being the highest, according to the National Cancer Institute.

His memoir about his romance with actress Farrah Fawcett, "Both of Us: My Life With Farrah," will be published on May 1. Fawcett died in 2009 after a public battle with cancer.

Last year, O'Neal starred in an docu-series, called "Ryan and Tatum: The O'Neals," which followed the actor and his daughter, Tatum, as they reclaimed their relationship after more than 25 years of estrangement.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.